FIFA World Cup 2010: Barcelona Rule in South Africa

With the completion of the group stages at the World Cup, 16 teams have been sent home while 16 remain and eagerly await to contest the final eight spots.

The group stages have seen some disappointing performances, some interestingly fought matchups, and some very average games not really worthy of World Cup quality.

But besides the ball issues, which seem to have died off; the vuvuzelas, which the players have become accustomed to; and the cold weather, which only nature can change; the beautiful game continues.

Looking at the performances thus far from individuals at the World Cup, it's easy to quickly pick out players, as their performances stand out. Amongst the names you would mention are those of FC Barcelona.

While they might have fielded the most players representing their countries at the World Cup, Barca players haven't disappointed.

Gerard Pique (Spain)

He's been in the thick of the action, putting his entire body on the line. From the first game, when Spain were really poor, even then he pulled out some telling defensive  contributions. Pique continues to rise to the top, now a first choice centre back both for Spain and Barcelona.

Carlos Puyol (Spain)

Another massive player for Spain, captain of Barcelona, he's the wall at the back who ensures if anything should come beyond the last line of midfield, he's there to cover.

Dani Alves (Brazil)

Not used as a first choice by coach Dunga, but when called upon Alves has played his part. So far his contribution has been on the right side of midfield. Alves is very attacking and likes to run down the flanks, but when he sees the space in, he will run inside and is not afraid to take a chance from long ranges. In the 0-0 draw with Portugal, Alves was the standout player, the only one who looked in the mood.

Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Well, many doubted he would shine on the international stage, but Messi has proved his critics wrong. He's been at the center of almost every Argentinian attack. Frustrated as he might be as he can't just seem to score, he continues to create opportunities and at the end of the day, Argentina have progressed with nine points.

Xavi (Spain)

Currently one of the best midfielders in the world, Xavi's ability to find space and time on the ball, making those clean passes, is amazing. In the game against Honduras, he created chance after chance, and it was a shame that almost all weren't finished. Then came Chile, and Xavi started off left-footed but once he got going, he racked up some amazing figures.

Busquets (Spain)

The list goes on with yet another Spanish international. While many might say the Spanish haven't really impressed, I would have to disagree. Yes, they haven't gone into top gear, but in terms of playing the game with relative ease, Busquets and Co. have been the best thus far. He's played his part and moved the ball around with quality passing and excellent ball control.

Iniesta (Spain)

Yes, he's Spanish and while he might not be near his best, Iniesta's contribution is sometimes shadowed by that of Xavi. For the record, he did score one of the two goals against Chile. Now that Spain have progressed and will face Portugal, Iniesta's role will become more important against the tougher teams.

Yaya Toure (Ivory Coast)

While they might be knocked out and on their way home, Yaya has been a much better player for his team. He usually plays a more defensive role in midfield, but this time around he came forward and really used the ball much better. There were times when he made the incorrect pass or decision to take a shot, but those will always be there for any player.

David Villa (Spain)

He hasn't yet played a game for Barcelona, but the former Valencia man has been at the forefront of almost every attacking move for Spain, having scored three goals already and looking hungry for more. Villa has scored three goals, all of which will be remembered, but the latest one—a strike from around 35 yards with the keeper out of position—was incredible.

For those who support the red and blue of Barcelona, they will be mightily impressed and eager for the new season. With Mourinho at Madrid, Villa moved to Barcelona, and still a number of interesting transfers in the balance, La Liga is once again looking like the place to be.